Heather Ann Panichelli
April 7, 1985 - May 18, 2026
Heather Ann Panichelli, age 41, of Middletown, DE, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family on Monday, May 18, 2026.
Born in Fort Campbell, TN on April 7, 1985, she was the daughter of Michael J. and Valarie (Schuyler) Jones. Heather was a graduate of Osbourn Park Senior High School in Manassas, VA with the class of 2003. She continued her education at Lynchburg College in Lynchburg, VA, earning her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing in 2007. Heather later earned her Master’s in Nursing as a Clinical Nurse Specialist from Widener University in Chester, PA in 2014.
Heather began working in healthcare at Potomac Hospital in Woodbridge, VA as a nursing assistant during college. She began her career with Christiana Hospital in 2007, working in the Emergency Department as an Emergency and Trauma Nurse. Heather was currently serving as a Clinical Nurse Specialist for Emergency Medicine. Throughout her employment, she earned multiple certifications including, Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN), Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN), as well as a Master’s Degree for Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse for Emergency Medicine.
Heather enjoyed staying active; she frequently competed in 5K runs and always looked forward to working out. She was also an active participant and supporter of MOT Youth Football and Baseball. Heather found peace at the beach and was happiest spending her time boating. Her greatest love was her family. Heather proudly attended all of her kids sports and activities to cheer them on. She also enjoyed attending family gatherings
Heather is survived by her loving husband of 12 years, Scott Christopher “Chris” Panichelli; children, Scott Christopher Panichelli and Charli Jane Panichelli; parents, Michael and Valarie Jones; brother, Michael Jones II (Deanna Marie); father and mother-in-law, Scott and Rebecca Panichelli; sister-in-law, Ashley Casper (Jim); and many other family members.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 12 pm until 2 pm on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 275 East Main Street, Middletown, DE, where a memorial service will begin at 2 pm. Inurnment will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Heather’s memory to the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute, Christiana Care Office of Philanthropy, 4000 Nexus Drive, Suite W3-300, Wilmington, DE 19803 or online by clicking here.
Paula Furtado
Heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Heather! She was taken way to soon! Our hearts ache with your loss!
Rebecca Panichelli
There are no words to describe how deeply we love and miss you. We will carry you in our hearts forever. Rest in Peace Sweet Girl! I hope you’re sitting on a beach drinking the best Starbucks ever!
Lindsey Cook
Heather ,
I am so sorry to hear of your passing ! I remember having Scotty in my class at just one years old ! I will be thinking of your whole family
Jessica
I had the pleasure of meeting Heather when I had Scotty in my class at GNB. She was always so sweet to us. I am saddened to hear of her passing and send prayers to her family ❤️
Dawn Rhoades
Our hearts ache for you and with you Chris, Scott, Charli and your entire family. Heather will be deeply missed, and we will always remember her vibrant spirit in the ED. Holding you all in our thoughts and sending heartfelt sympathy and love.
Jennifer Davis
Becky,
Sending much love to you and your family during this very difficult time as you remember the beautiful life of your “princess warrior” Heather. Her strength and courage throughout her battle were remarkable. May you find comfort knowing she is at peace and always in the spirit and hearts of your beautiful grandchildren, Scott and Charli.
Max Hendricks
Heaven has gained a true Angel. I was blessed to know Heather when she was a child growing up in Ky. Full of Spunk, always on the go, and the Biggest Heart a child could ever have. Young Lady you will surely be missed here on earth, but one day there will be a Great Reunion. May God grant your family the strength and peace to make it thru this difficult time. I will see you again one day.
Candy Robinson
Valarie,
My heart breaks for you. Such a young soul gone way too soon. 😘
Shirley Shea
I met Heather when she cared for my son after he was shot in the line of duty as a LEO. Our family stayed in contact with her. I was diagnosed with TNBC in Oct 2025 and she reached out to me about it. I just have no words but she was a wonderful women. Praying for her family
Mary Rosenbauer
My sincerest condolences. You have an angel in heaven. She will be missed by many.
Jill Morris
I will never forget how Heather lights up every room she walks into. ❤️
James and Ligia Laws
So sorry for your loss, our condolences to all the family, we will pray for her, god bless
Darian Kinney
I had the pleasure of knowing the Panichelli’s as I was Charli’s Pre-k Teacher. Heather was always a joy to talk to when I had the chance. She will be dearly missed! Sending Prayers to the family.
Kathy Boyer
My most sincere condolences to the family and friends of Heather. I worked with Heather and she will always be remembered for her amazing spirit.
Maria Verucci
I am deeply sorry for your loss. Heather was truly one of the kindest and strongest people I have ever known. No matter what she was facing, she always carried herself with compassion, strength, and a smile that made others feel cared for. She dedicated so much of her life to helping others as a nurse, mother, sister, aunt, and friend, and her impact reached far beyond what words can express.
I will always remember her willingness to help anyone in need, the comfort she brought to families, and the way she continued to think of others even during her own battle. Heather was an incredible person who inspired so many through her courage, knowledge, and heart.
Keeping the whole family in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Her memory and the love she gave to others will never be forgotten.
Destiny Hackett
I had to pleasure of knowing Heather, as I was both Charli and Scott’s teacher. Heather was a great person with the best personality, she will truly be missed. Praying for her entire family.
Anthony and Linda Suppe
Sorry for your loss. Sending our sincere condolences to you and your family
Betty Marcocci
God Bless you all -there just are no words …. Feeling your pain and praying for comfort . Just so very very very sad ,